White Coating Ceremonies

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the recommended attire?

STUDENTS: Business attire. Suits/sport coats are not recommended as you will ultimately be wearing your white coat. Please be mindful of your shoe selection as you will have to go up and down stairs.

GUESTS: No specified attire, but business casual is recommended.

Are students allowed to have a guest coater for the ceremony?

No. KCU’s White Coating tradition symbolically establishes a professional and personal relationship between incoming students and the KCU faculty who will become their mentors. KCU does not incorporate guest coaters.

How long does the ceremony last?

Each ceremony will last approximately 90 minutes.

Is it mandatory for students to attend the ceremony?

Yes. Attendance at the White Coat Ceremony is mandatory for all incoming students.

Will the ceremony be livestreamed?

Yes. The White Coat Ceremony will be livestreamed and available as a recording on YouTube. On the day of the ceremony, the livestream can be accessed on KCU’s main webpage.

Will guests need physical tickets?

Yes. Every person attending our White Coat Ceremonies will need a physical ticket to enter the venue. Students will pick-up their tickets during orientation.

Where do guests park?

Kansas City: Parking in the Arts District Garage in Kansas City is $16/car.

Joplin: Parking in the lots outside the Joplin High School Performing Arts Center is free.

Will there be photographers at the ceremony?

We have professional photographers who will capture each student being coated on stage and then take a portrait photo as each student exits the stage. These photos will be available for purchase from the photography company approximately one week after the ceremony.

In addition, KCU will have a photographer onsite taking candid photos. These photos of the audience, arrivals, ceremony, etc., will be available on KCU’s social media channels a few weeks after the ceremony.